Abuse, Frustration and Trauma in Fiction: Rethinking Power, Patriarch and the Politics of Fatherhood in Ndzi Ngo Tinciki by F. A. Thuketana and Hi Ya Kwihi by M. J. Maluleke

Abstract

This article explores the themes of abuse, trauma, and frustration in two Xitsonga novels, Ndzi ngo Tinciki! by F.A. Thuketana and Hi ya Kwihi? by M.J. Maluleke, through a feminist and psychoanalytic lens. The title Ndzi ngo Tinciki translates to "I would rather hang myself," evoking a sense of overwhelming despair, while Hi ya Kwihi? translates to "Where are we going," hinting at existential uncertainty and frustration. Using textual analysis as the research method and thematic analysis as the data analysis method, the article examines how these themes manifest and intersect within the narratives, reflecting broader societal issues of gendered oppression, psychological distress, and resistance. The feminist framework highlights the power dynamics and systemic inequalities that shape the characters' experiences, while psychoanalytic theory provides insights into the emotional and psychological effects of abuse and trauma. Through this approach, the article seeks to uncover deeper meanings related to the characters' inner worlds and their struggles for agency, offering a critical understanding of how literature portrays the complexities of abuse and its enduring effects on individuals and communities. This article contributes to the broader discourse on African literature, particularly in how it reflects and critiques cultural norms surrounding gender and mental health.